President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed security chiefs and emergency responders to Borno State following the suicide bomb attacks in Maiduguri that left 23 people dead and 108 others injured.
The coordinated explosions, which occurred on Monday evening, 16 March 2026, targeted the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate, the Monday Market Roundabout, and the Post Office area within the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council.
The blasts, suspected to have been carried out using improvised explosive devices by Boko Haram, were reported around 7 p.m., shortly after Muslims broke their fast.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the President expressed grief over the casualties, sympathised with the injured, and affirmed his solidarity with residents of Borno State.
He described the attacks as disturbing, noting that they reflect desperate attempts by terrorist groups under sustained pressure from security forces.
“I want to make it categorically clear that these acts of terror are the final desperate and frantic attempts by criminals and terrorist elements trying to instil and spread fear, as they are under constant pressure from our brave armed forces and security agencies operating in various theatres. We will continue to intensify our efforts against all criminal elements, wherever they may be.
“I must commend the courage and fighting spirit of our patriotic troops who successfully repelled the coordinated attacks by these terrorists on military positions in the state.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu further stated that he has ordered security chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri to oversee operations and coordinate response efforts on the ground.
“The Monday attacks were desperate acts of the evil-minded terrorist groups. Our gallant military and civilian task forces will curtail and put them down.
“Additionally, I have directed security chiefs to move to Maiduguri to take charge of the situation. I have also directed the emergency agencies to provide proper care for the injured.”
He also disclosed that additional equipment and operational support have been approved to strengthen the capacity of security agencies.
“Just last weekend, during a security meeting with leaders of security and intelligence agencies, I approved additional equipment and operational support to enhance their capabilities. This effort is already in progress.”
“There is no place in Nigeria where terrorists will find safety. We will locate them, confront them, and completely defeat them.”
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army has warned residents of Maiduguri to avoid crowded areas, citing intelligence indicating the potential for further suicide attacks by Boko Haram elements.
Authorities have intensified security measures across Maiduguri as efforts continue to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of residents in the aftermath of the explosions.
